Classifying neurocognitive disorders: the DSM-5 approach.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Gerontology

Background:

• Neurocognitive disorders encompass delirium, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia, all marked by cognitive decline.
• Diverse etiologies include Alzheimer's disease, cerebrovascular disease, and infections, leading to varied classification systems.
• Existing classifications present challenges with terminology, definitions, and etiological criteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) as a common diagnostic framework.
• To establish a standardized language for describing neurocognitive disorders and their subtypes.
• To facilitate improved communication and potential international classification.

Main Methods:

• The DSM-5 provides a framework by describing cognitive syndromes.
• It defines criteria for etiological subtypes of mild and major neurocognitive disorders.
• The approach emphasizes a shared language for diagnosis and research.

Main Results:

• The DSM-5 offers a unified approach to diagnosing neurocognitive disorders.
• It standardizes the description of cognitive syndromes and etiological subtypes.
• This framework is expected to promote a common international classification.

Conclusions:

• The DSM-5 provides a crucial common language for neurocognitive disorders.
• Widespread adoption of DSM-5 criteria can lead to a unified international classification.
• This standardization will enhance communication among clinicians and researchers.